Viola T. Heilman

Viola Theresa Heilman entered this life on June 21, 1928 in Esmond, North Dakota. Born and raised on the family farm, she was the seventh of fifteen children born to Lorenz and Elizabeth Heilman. She and her sisters sang in the church choir where their father served as church organist and choir director. Alongside her sister and aunt, she worked as a laundress at the local hospital in Harvey, N.D. The two sisters shared a room at their aunt’s home.

In 1952, Viola married the love of her life, Edward. The happy couple tried their hand at farming in North Dakota for a short time and had two children, Pat and Leon. Seeking new opportunities, they decided to move to Lodi, California in 1956. In that same year, they moved to Bellflower, California and then purchased their permanent residence in Lakewood, California. Two more children, Janell and Charlene, were added to the family. For the next 60 years Lakewood was her home until her recent passing.

As a young mother and homemaker, Viola took in ironing to help make ends meet. After raising her children, she worked part-time as a server in the catering business. During this time, she had the pleasure of working on yachts, large estates, and the Long Beach Grand Prix.

Viola loved cooking and baking for family and friends. At Christmas time there was an over-abundance of cookies, cakes, fudge and peanut brittle. She was known for decorating her home for every season and holiday. She was on several bowling leagues and was an active guild member at her church.

In their retirement years, Viola and Edward loved to travel. They enjoyed many trips with family and friends – especially cruises.

Her smile was quick, her nature sweet. Her family and many friends were the joy of her life.

Viola entered eternal life on September 30, 2017 at the age of 89.

She was a loving wife, devoted mother, and grandmother. Her four children, nine grandchildren, and six surviving sisters will cherish her memory and miss her dearly.

Viola is survived by her four children: Patricia (Ken) Snyder, Leon (Debbie) Heilman, Janell (Bob) Bunkofske, and Charlene (Greg) Holman; her nine grandchildren: Heidi (Jay), Robert, Heather, Garrett (Christina), Jonathan, Maegan (Kamal), Jared, Brett, and Elyse; and her six sisters: Ruth, Lillian, Lorraine, Anna Rose, Eleanore, and Margie.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edward; and three brothers and five sisters.

Funeral Services will be held at Luyben Dilday Mortuary on October 21, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at All Souls Cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the American Diabetes Association in memory of Viola. Click here to view the fund page for Viola Heilman Memorial

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401